The solids that we give our little ones should we mashed thoroughly and no chunky particles should be given since they made choke on them. Initially I was using Mixer to mash the solids but many of the mashed solid gets held behind the blade. Also, it was time consuming since opening the lid of the jar and checking the texture repeatedly was difficult.
Hand blender is a great appliance for mashing food. It is quick, mashes thoroughly, the texture can be checked then and there and there is less wastage. I blend everything from vegetables to fruits even boiled rice and dal using the hand blender. Its a good to have appliance while introducing solids for babies.